What Are Some Solutions to Stop Cyberbullying?

Whether teens are victims or bystanders, they can make a stand against cyberbullying by choosing not to read or forward any malicious content, thereby taking away a bully's audience. Because cyberbullying violates the participation guidelines of many Internet websites, teens can also report inappropriate behavior to internal moderators to get the bully's account banned. Built-in blocking features on electronics also prevent bullies from making direct calls or texts to victims.

Cyberbullying, which often occurs between minors, relies on electronic communications to harass or humiliate a victim. When teens are bystanders online or in person, they can collectively speak up against bullying behavior to deflect attacks before they escalate. If an online aggressor makes alarming threats or relentlessly stalks someone, the victim can file a report with local law enforcement to resolve the issue. The National Crime Prevention Council advises teens to save any record of a cyberbullying incident, such as text messages or chat room logs.

Parents may detect early signs of cyberbullying by paying attention to teens' online behavior, periodically monitoring communications and educating kids about online etiquette. Adults should discourage teens from sharing passwords and posting private information in public areas. When parents suspect their own child of bullying others, they may need to limit computer usage or seek help from a therapist to help teens learn healthy ways of communicating. Schools are equally encouraged to develop technology usage policies and establish consequences for engaging in cyberbullying during school hours or on school property.